19 Must-Have Resources for Small Business Owners

Aspiring small business owners need help but often don’t know where to turn or who to trust for advice. Here’s the SocialMediaOnlineClasses.com Small Business Resource Guide, a primer on the big issues facing business owners and where to turn for help. Bookmark this page so you can return to it when you need help. I’ve collected the resources I’ve used and wished I knew about when I started my own business. Good luck!

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Website Design

Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can use a Facebook page as your main website. Give your business credibility by having a well-designed website, the 21st century version of an online business card. If people can’t find you on the web, you’re losing business, period.

Getting Funded and Getting Paid

Many mega-banks and small community banks are backing away from small business lending, but loans are still out there to be had. It can be tough to navigate the maze of SBA resources, but it’s worth it. I secured an SBA loan for the second printing of my book after my community bank turned me down, but it wasn’t easy. It took six months of solid determination, filling out massive amounts of paperwork, and constant follow-up calls. Here’s where to go for help.

Government Resources for Small Business

The U.S. government is serious about providing assistance to entrepreneurs. Know why? Because small businesses pay taxes, and more profitable you are, the more taxes you pay. That’s a good thing. Don’t complain about paying taxes: that means your business is doing well, and you probably got there with the help of the SBA, SCORE, or other government agency. If you’re not there yet, or need help in getting there, here’s where to start:

Small Business Development Centers. These university/college-based offices partner with the SBA to provide educational services to aspiring and growing small business owners. Their budget is far greater than SCORE’s and provides more services. I was made aware of SBDCs by my SCORE mentor, who actually recommended their educational programs. He said they have much bigger budgets and more resources than SCORE. SBDCs exist in all 50 states, and if I can find one in a rural mountainous area, you can too!

SCORE website. SCORE offers excellent mentors and counseling. My own SCORE mentor guided me through the process of getting an SBA loan. Definitely take advantage of the leadership here.

Lastly, check out my growing list of online courses to help you get started with your entrepreneurial venture. Classes are instructor-led, on your own schedule, and I’m available to answer your questions when you get stuck. Look forward to seeing you in class!

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Aspiring small business owners need help but often don’t know where to turn or who to trust for advice. Here’s the SocialMediaOnlineClasses.com Small Business Resource Guide, a primer on the big issues facing business owners and where to turn for help. Bookmark this page so you can return to it when you need help. I’ve [...]

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